Chris Paul re-signs with Los Angeles Clippers

Jul. 1, 2013
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Chris Paul / Michael Buckner Getty Images

by Jeff Zillgitt, USA TODAY Sports

by Jeff Zillgitt, USA TODAY Sports

Once the Los Angeles Clippers accomplished the difficult task (hiring Doc Rivers to coach the team), the next task (getting point guard Chris Paul to re-sign) was easier.

Paul, who became a free agent on July 1, quickly ended his free agency, agreeing to a five-year, $107 million deal with the Clippers. Paul can opt out of the final year of the contract.

On Monday morning, Paul tweeted, "I'm in!!! #CLIPPERNATION" and ensured the Clippers have their point guard for the future.

Paul, who joined the league in 2005-06 as the No. 4 pick by the New Orleans Hornets, is a six-time All-Star and has been named to the All-NBA first-team three times, including the past two seasons.

Paul led the Clippers to a franchise-record 56 victories last season and averaged 16.9 points, 9.7 assists. 3.7 rebounds and 2.4 steals in 2012-13. However, the Clippers lost in the first round of the playoffs to the Memphis Grizzlies in six games -- a disappointing end to a strong season.

That prompted a coaching change, and Rivers, after much back and forth between the Boston Celtics and Clippers, eventually replaced Vinny Del Negro. Now, expectations are much higher for 2013-14.